Description
Tender and juicy air fryer chicken breast seasoned with garlic, onion powder, paprika, and thyme for a simple, flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for at least 5 minutes.
- If your chicken breasts are very thick, slice them horizontally to create two thinner cutlets of even thickness. This promotes even cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Rub the olive oil all over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Then, generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture over both sides of the chicken, pressing it gently to adhere.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd; cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through, until a golden crust forms and the chicken is cooked through. The exact timing will depend on the thickness of your chicken breasts.
- Verify doneness with an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast; it should read 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
Notes
- Always check the internal temperature to ensure the chicken is fully cooked to 165°F for safety.
- Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps retain moisture and juiciness.
- Adjust cooking time based on chicken thickness; thinner pieces may cook faster.
- This recipe is versatile and can be served with salads, veggies, or grains.